What Are Exotic Metals?

Exotic metals are more costly to manufacture and process, due to high temperatures required for heating and shaping of parts. Some of the more well-known exotic metals include titanium, molybdenum, and super alloys. Many of the rare metals are now accepted as metal scrap at recycling centers and scrap yards throughout the Houston area.

Titanium is often used in fighter jet and car racing applications. It is nearly as light as aluminum; yet is stronger than steel. It is not used much in every day applications, as it tends to become deformed when coming into contact with other metals. Titanium must be heated to around 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, when processed. It must also be kept in an airtight environment.

Molybdenum is known for its strength and electrical conductivity. It is often used in lighting, medical equipment, in thermal spray coatings, and in military applications. This metal has been used since the early 1920s. However, it is commonly found as an alloy for today’s manufacturing applications.

Super alloys, such as Hastelloy, are desirable due to their strength, ability to tolerate extremely high temperatures, and resistance to corrosion. Due to their ability to withstand high temperatures, super alloys are often used in turbine engines of jets. Many Houston scrap yards that take metal scrap will also accept rare alloys and unusual metals. Some yards have taken and recycled these metals for government contractors, so they know exactly how to handle these metals. Many scrap recyclers will pay top dollar for these particular kinds of metals and alloys.

Exotic metals end up as metal scrap, when engine and similar parts are no longer in working order. They may also end up as scrap when lighting components are discarded. Premier Metal Buyers, a scrap yard or metal recycling center in Houston will pay cash for rare metals, based on composition and weight of the items.